Military Service

My vote is not a Christmas gift, some toy or clothing item that I'm allowed to play with or wear from time to time. It is learned, informed and dedicated to the self-evident truth that fair and equal citizenship for American men and women is inherent in the American dream.

The U.S. military was engaged in two theaters of war, I was studying global security, and yet I could not think of a single person I knew who was serving -- nor had the thought previously crossed my mind.

For the most part this is to be expected, as Obama has a significant advantage in the youth vote in the general electorate as well, but to see this preference among young service members and veterans may mean that the era when it seemed that Republicans had a lock on the military vote is coming to a close.

This past Sunday, Illinois Congressman Joe Walsh, who never served a day in the military, shamelessly questioned the heroism of his Congressional opponent, Illinois Army National Guard veteran and double amputee, Major Tammy Duckworth.

This Memorial Day, honor those who have fallen in service to the nation. They have given the last full measure and they surely deserve our respect and gratitude. But take just a minute to honor those who fought in our wars and lived. For many, their battles are far from over.

The American sons and daughters who Romney would send to Iran almost surely would not include any of his five strapping lads. Nor, if the past decade serves as an indicator, would the American forces in Iran include many of the children of our nation's political leaders.

Congress passed the Stolen Valor Act to protect the reputation of military decorations and honors from false pretenders. Such false representations dishonor the decorations themselves, and diminish the reputation.

When I go to sleep tonight I will say a small prayer for this young airman's safety. But most importantly I'll give thanks to the many young Americans like her who will ultimately shape the future of our nation.

Like our founding fathers, today's guardians of freedom continually apply their sweat and blood to preserve this as the land of the free and home of the brave. Daily, they are making a difference in the lives of so many Americans.

A few days ago, I argued about whether Manning has the right to due process and the right not to be tortured. I believe he has rights, the other contributors disagreed. Captain David Price, a viewer and a retired JAG corps member, wrote in to clarify.

Manchin said that DADT was complicated for him and said "there were a lot of military in my state." What the senator needs to know is that the notion that military families are medieval on this subject is wrong.